Apply for Free School Meals
More families now qualify from September 2026
We want to make sure every child who is entitled to a free school meal receives one. From September 2026, the eligibility rules are changing, meaning more families will qualify.
Why apply?
Even if your child:
- prefers a packed lunch, or
- already receives a free meal in Reception, Year 1 or Year 2
…it is still important to register.
By applying:
- Your child will receive a healthy, nutritious meal every school day
- The school may receive additional funding (Pupil Premium) to support teaching, resources and wider opportunities
- You only need to apply once — eligibility will be checked automatically each year
Who can apply?
Your child may be eligible for free school meals if you receive any of the following:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- The guarantee element of Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit (without Working Tax Credit) with an income of £16,190 or less
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
How to apply
Applying is quick and straightforward.
Click here.
The application takes just a few minutes to complete.
What you will need
To check your eligibility, you will be asked to provide:
- Your name
- Date of birth
- National Insurance number (or NASS number)
This information is checked securely against government records and results in a simple yes or no decision.
The school does not see your personal benefit details.